See redesign plans for Marlborough Square

Plans to redesign Marlborough Square in Coalville have taken a step forward with detailed designs now available to the public.

As part of its commitment to regenerate and build confidence in Coalville, North West Leicestershire District Council is investing £1.1 million in the redesign of the square to make it a much more attractive public space that is pedestrian friendly and can be used for a range of events.

Members of the public can now see the designs online or at two engagement events, which will be held in Marlborough Square, based at Subway:

Saturday 21 April: 10am – 3pm

Friday 27 April: 10am – 3pm

Events
The council hopes that at least one event will be held in the square each month. Events could include special markets, funfairs and exhibitions.

Traffic
Vehicles will only be able to travel through the square one way – from Jackson Street to Belvoir Road.

The carriageway around the square on Belvoir Road, Jackson Street and Marlborough Square itself will be raised to encourage vehicles to slow down.

Parking
Approximately five free 30 minute parking spaces will be provided in the new square. Three of these spaces will be used by the church for funerals and weddings.

The 24 current free spaces will be moved to James’ Street Car Park (12 free one hour spaces) and Margaret Street Car Park (12 free one hour spaces).

Buses and taxis

There will be two bus bays with shelters and one waiting space for buses.

The taxi rank will be opposite the day nursery. It will hold approximately three cars. At night, when there are no buses running, the bus bays will be used as an additional taxi rank.

National Forest planting and public art

Trees form a key part of the redesign, with large granite planters also providing casual seating for those using the square. A piece of public art will also be included.

Anyone who would like to comment on the redesign can contact feedback@nwleicestershire.gov.uk before Thursday 17 May.

Once the final plans are drawn up it will take up to six months to carry out the work, with the new square expected to be completed by winter 2018/19.

Councillor Richard Blunt, Leader of NWLDC, said: “The designs for Marlborough Square have received the support of local businesses and users of the square who want to see a vibrant public space, not just a cluttered car park.

“This is an exciting time for Coalville – we already know our plans to redesign this square has attracted new business; the new owners of the bingo hall were encouraged to buy it as they could see investment in the area. We hope this continues as the work goes on to draw more businesses to this part of town.

“I hope people take the opportunity to look at the plans and let us know how they could see the redesigned square being used in the future. I’m looking forward to seeing the final plans drawn up and work start on putting the soul back into Marlborough Square.”